Veterans Day, November 11, was initially established as Armistice Day to remember those who fought in World War I. In 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower officially changed the name of the holiday to Veterans Day.

Harney held its annual veterans’ ceremony a few days earlier to make it more accessible for the community. Harney’s tribute included a presentation by their VFW Honor Guard, speeches by local disnatures, and recognition of all the veterans in attendance. The ceremony closed with a bell being rung three times to honor the fallen veterans who could not be present.

"It’s an honor to keep these traditions alive," Past VFW District 7 Commander Thomas Williams said. "The VFW is a support system for veterans, with members who are active in the community and live to help others. Many veterans are only around because of our support system," Williams said.

Williams’ tipped his hat to the members of the Harney Post who he said actively work to erase the stereotype that VFM members do nothing more then sit around drinking and telling war stories all day. "The Harney Post," he said, "is always looking to engage with the community for the betterment of its veterans."

Harney’s VFW provides youth activity programs and raises thousands of dollars for scholarships. The Post actively works to get more families involved and start children at a young age to hear about the lives of veterans and what dedication to your country looks like. Given the holiday season is often the most difficult time for veterans, members of the Harney Post are working with members of the community to help veterans, especially those hospitalized or who live alone.

"The greatest fear of any veteran is being forgotten," according to Thomas Williams, "but the dedication and work done throughout the VFW, especially Harney, ensures it will never be a possibility. A veteran is only gone when their name is no longer said," he said.

On Dec 18, Harney Post 6918 will participate in the Wreaths Across America - an annual tradition dedicated to never forget the fallen. Those seeking to join in the effort are asked to assemble at Post 6918 at 11:30 a.m.. Participants will lay wreaths at the tombstones of veterans at Mountain View and Sunrose Cemeteries. Names are read off each veteran’s tombstone as wreaths are laid, to insure their names are heard once again by all. For more information about Harney Post 6918 visit www.harneyvfwpost6918.org/index.htm.